7 Skin Care Mistakes You’re Probably Making (And How To Fix Them)

We all know those people who seem to just have perfect skin. You know, those people who never have to wear concealer, nonetheless foundation. Those people that have skin that doesn’t seem to change, no matter how many years go by. Meanwhile, I’m constantly seeking out and trying new products, methods, or trends for keeping my skin healthy and glowing year-round, and y’all, it’s hard. It’s hard to know how many products you actually need, how often you’re supposed to use said products, what ingredients you’re supposed to avoid…you get it. It’s hard.

But the truth is that you (and I) aren’t doing everything we can to keep our skin healthy. In fact, there are lots of seemingly harmless things you’re doing every day that are causing damage to your skin– and not to be dramatic or anything, but some of this damage can be irreparable.

If you find yourself guilty of one (or all, no judgement) of these 7 things, fear not! They are easy to fix, and won’t require you to buy 1,000 new products to make it happen.

7 Skin Mistakes You’re Probably Making (And How To Fix Them):

1. Not changing your pillowcase enough

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but your pillowcase is probably one of the main sources of most of your skin care problems. It makes sense if you think about it– you lay down on your pillow with your hair and face after a long day, and you sweat at night, so all of that oil just collects, and then you’re laying your face on it again…

Get an extra pillowcase for your pillow to switch out mid-week (after about 4 days of use)– I’m not suggesting you wash your sheets every 3 days, but swapping out your pillowcase for a fresh, clean one is a pretty simple thing to do in exchange for happier skin.

2. Washing your face too much

It doesn’t seem right, I know. But there are actually some good oils that your face and skin need in order to stay healthy and hydrated. Wash your face once in the morning and once in the evening. If you simply must wash your face midday, consider using a face cleaning towelette instead.

3. Over-exfoliating or overusing scrubs

Yes, you should definitely use an exfoliant or scrub– but similar to the whole washing your face too much issue, using too many abrasive scrubs and over-exfoliating your skin can actually cause harm to the delicate skin on your face, especially around your eyes. Instead of using an exfoliating scrub daily, bump down your use to twice per week, and use a gentle foaming wash the remaining days of the week.

4. Not wearing sunscreen on the daily

I don’t know about you, but I can hear my mom’s voice telling me this one. Finding a good face lotion or foundation with an SPF of at least 30 will help fight sun damage, wrinkles, sun spots, and help prevent skin cancer. While you’re at it, use the SPF on your ears, neck, and chest, too.

5. Not cleaning your makeup brushes

I’m so guilty of this one! Find a daily makeup cleanser you can spray on your makeup brushes daily, and give them a deep clean at least once per month, if not more.

6. Not putting your hair up when you sleep

Just like the pillowcase situation, your hair is harboring a lot of oil and (sometimes) products that can cause your skin to break out. Find a comfortable ponytail holder or headband you can sleep in, or at least clip your bangs back before you fall asleep.

7. Not eating a proper diet

I love every food that is bad for me, so I understand this one far too well. I’ve heard before that what is good for your heart is also good for your skin– eating lots of fruits and veggies and making sure you’re drinking plenty of water every day will help keep your skin happy, healthy and glowing.